Philadelphia honours Kevin Hart

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Standing in front of a new mural of his face painted on a cheesesteak spot around the corner from his childhood home, comedian Kevin Hart celebrated his 38th birthday on Thursday in true superstar style with his very own holiday.

The city's native son returned to Max's Steaks in his old north Philadelphia neighbourhood for the recently dubbed "Kevin Hart Day," a block party that drew more than 200 fans who chanted his name as rain showers drenched the crowd.

"There was a point in my life where I needed people to buy me cheesesteaks at Max's, and now when I go to Max's, my face is on the side of the building," Hart told the crowd.

City officials this year passed a resolution naming the comedic actor's July 6 birthday to be an official holiday bearing his name.

"I truly do believe that Philadelphia made me into the man I am today," Hart said. "I eat, breathe, and sleep this city, man."